Greetings, fellow nature enthusiasts! If you find yourself in the Czech Republic's capital, Prague, we have an absolute treat for you – the breathtaking Botanical Garden in Troja. Situated on a picturesque hillside, this green gem is just a short, scenic bus ride (around 30-40 minutes) away from the heart of Prague. Get ready to embark on a journey of relaxation and botanical learning in this urban oasis.

The Botanical Garden's Outdoor Expositions will embrace you in the vibrant tapestry of over 15,000 tree and flower species. You'll be captivated by the serenity of the meditative Japanese Garden, adorned with delicate blossoms of rhododendrons, peonies, and tender Japanese cherries. During the scorching summer days, find refuge under the cool shade of the garden, and as autumn arrives, watch the vivid hues of Japanese maples brighten the surroundings. The wonders of the Peony Meadow, the North American Prairie, the Ornamental Garden, and the Mediterranean will leave you awe-inspired – and these are just a glimpse of the many fascinating places awaiting your exploration.

But that's not all! In the enchanting Japanese Garden, you'll find an astonishing exhibition of Bonsai Trees, each boasting their own unique kind and size. These meticulously cultivated miniature masterpieces will leave you in awe of the artistry and dedication behind their creation. As you stroll through the garden, take the time to appreciate the intricate details of these miniature trees, carefully shaped and nurtured over time. The Bonsai Trees add an extra layer of charm to the already captivating Japanese Garden, making it a must-see highlight of your botanical journey.

Prepare to marvel at the treasures of the plant kingdom in every season, as each offers a unique spectacle to behold. But that's not all! Prepare for an enthralling voyage around the world within the Fata Morgana Greenhouse. This hour-long journey will introduce you to exotic gems from tropical rainforests, cloud forests, and the world's driest regions. Be captivated by the diverse array of tropical fish thriving in lush rivers and lakes, all while the melodious sound of an impressive waterfall creates a mesmerizing ambiance.

To discover all the plant beauties spread across nearly 30 hectares of the garden, you may easily spend between 4 to 6 hours; but no worries – there are also several options for refreshments, including drinks and simple food. I would be happy to receive your feedback after your visit to the botanical garden.

If you're looking for a fascinating destination that delights both animal and plant lovers, I truly recommend visiting the historic Wilhelma in Stuttgart in Germany.

The Wilhelma has a captivating history dating back to the 19th century. It was originally built as a royal pleasure palace in the Moorish style and later served as a royal winter garden. The architectural details and stunning gardens of Wilhelma are testaments to its magnificent past.

Today, Wilhelma is a zoological-botanical garden and a popular tourist attraction. Immerse yourself in the captivating world of wildlife as you admire majestic big cats such as lions, tigers, and leopards. Observe the grace of elephants, the elegance of giraffes, and the playful primates like gorillas and chimpanzees. The diversity of animals in Wilhelma will surely impress you.

In addition to the fascinating animals, Wilhelma also offers a haven of tranquility and beauty in the form of its enchanting botanical garden. Explore an impressive variety of plant species, from fragrant flower beds to colorful rose gardens and exotic plants from different climatic zones. Visit the tropical house and be enchanted by the lush vegetation and exotic scents.

During your visit, you can not only admire the wildlife and plant life but also explore the picturesque garden grounds. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the ponds and waterfalls or find a cozy spot for a picnic amidst nature. Wilhelma also offers various restaurants and cafes where you can take a break and savor the atmosphere.

Wilhelma is not only a place of wonder but also a hub for conservation efforts. By visiting Wilhelma, you actively support the preservation of endangered animal species and contribute to ensuring that these fascinating creatures can be admired in the future.

So pack your camera, put on comfortable shoes, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in TOM's FLOWer CLUB style. The historic Wilhelma in Stuttgart awaits you with its unique blend of wildlife, botanical treasures, and architectural beauty. Don't miss the opportunity to explore this destination and create wonderful memories.

The Brissago Islands form the botanical garden of the Canton of Ticino. The smaller island (or Isola di Sant'Apollinare) is covered by spontaneous vegetation, mainly of Insubrese origin, which is left in its natural state. On the Isola Grande (or Isola di San Pancrazio), which has been open to the public since 1950, mainly plants of subtropical origin from the northern and southern hemispheres have been planted. In 1885, Baroness Antoinette Saint-Léger chose the islands as her residence and frequently invited painters, sculptors, musicians and writers. The large island became an exotic garden.

In 1927, the new owner Max Emden, a businessman from Hamburg, had the present island palace, harbour and Roman bath built and expanded the care of exotic plants. The Botanical Garden offers a fascinating insight into the subtropical plant world.

Azaleas, rhododendrons, Japanese hemp palms, numerous camellias, Japanese bananas, bamboo and ginkgo transport the visitor to the Far East. The group of plants from South Africa surprises with protea, gazania, watsonia, agapanthus and lion's tail. Central America offers a completely different view with magnolia, the American amber tree, agave, bald cypress (on the islands for 30 years with its roots sticking out of the water), yucca, gold poppy, Guaranite sage, beschorneria, opuntia. From Australia come the huge eucalyptus trees (among the oldest at the southern foot of the Alps), broom heather, acacias. Shrub veronica, club lily and string tree take the visitor to New Zealand.

The Mediterranean is represented by sage, rosemary, holm oak, cork oak, Canary Island date palm, broad-leaved holm oak, strawberry tree heather and pine.

The Brissago Islands are part of the Gardens of Switzerland trade, which brings together the most beautiful gardens.

Closed during winter: open from April to November.